On Friday 04 October, the Kingdom of Lesotho proudly marked its Independence Day, celebrating 58 years of sovereignty and the Bicentennial of its founding in 1824. This significant occasion has drawn warm congratulations and heartfelt messages from global leaders, reflecting the country’s long-standing relationships and shared values with nations across the globe.
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Russia extended its congratulations to the people of Lesotho, stating, “Today, the Kingdom of Lesotho is celebrating Independence Day! Our nations enjoy long-standing friendly relations. Congratulations to our colleagues and the people of Lesotho on their national holiday! We wish the Basotho prosperity and success!”
Delivering his speech in Maseru, President Cyril Ramaphosa conveyed the well wishes of his nation to His Majesty and the people of Lesotho. He emphasized the deep ties that bind the two nations, saying, “South Africa and Lesotho are bound together by history, geography, culture and language. We share a common destiny.”
Ramaphosa acknowledged the contributions of Lesotho to African society and praised its resilience, likening the Kingdom to the majestic Maluti mountains. He paid homage to the nation’s founder, King Moshoeshoe I, honoring his vision and commitment to unity and peaceful coexistence.
“Morena Letsie III, you have under your rule and stewardship continued this great tradition with vigour, wisdom, compassion and love of the people of the Kingdom,” Ramaphosa added. His remarks highlighted the enduring friendship and solidarity between the Basotho and South Africans, recalling the heroic sacrifices made by the people of Lesotho in support of the anti-apartheid struggle.
Reflecting on the historical bonds between the two nations, President Nelson Mandela’s words from a State Banquet in 1995 resonated: “I am mindful of being amongst a people who have fought so valiantly for our freedom as for your own.” President Ramaphosa noted that the excellent relationship forged in those turbulent times has grown even stronger today, emphasizing the mutual interests that both countries continue to pursue.
The U.S. Embassy in Maseru also joined the celebration, taking to their social media, stating, “Happy Independence Day, Lesotho! We extend our warmest wishes to the Basotho people as they celebrate 58 years of independence. The United States and Lesotho share a long-standing partnership built on mutual respect and shared values. Together, we continue to work toward a future of prosperity, democracy, and opportunity for all.”
King Charles III of England added his voice to the chorus of congratulations, expressing his warmest regards on this special occasion. He cherished the close bond between their nations and remarked on the shared commitment to combating climate change. “I commend Lesotho’s ambitions to develop renewable energy and to promote sustainability and the protection of natural habitats in your beautiful country,” he said.
